Forget Private ADHD Diagnosis: 10 Reasons Why You Don't Need It
How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis If you want to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. This will be conducted by a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD nurse. This can be a lengthy process, as the old school records might need to be supplied. But, you can avoid the wait and get an assessment in private by making an appointment directly with an online ADHD clinic. What is a private evaluation? A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert who will discuss your symptoms and how they affect your life. It usually lasts two sessions and is more in-depth than an NHS assessment of psychiatric disorders. The process will involve an organized clinical interview with a specialist, and they will examine your symptoms from your childhood to adulthood. They will also consider other mental health issues or neurological issues that may be causing your symptoms. They will ask you about your symptoms in different areas, like at work or in relationships. It is important to remember that ADHD diagnosis isn't always simple. Many people diagnosed with the condition have an undiagnosed diagnosis. Inattention and hyperactivity as well as impulsivity are the three main symptoms. In adults, hyperactivity usually appears different from the raunchy hyperactivity seen in children, and may be characterized by the feeling of being constantly distracted or in constant motion. Inattention may also manifest as difficulties in focusing on tasks, being organised or sitting for long periods of time. If you think that medication could help your symptoms, a psychiatrist's official diagnosis is required. This will enable you to apply for reasonable adjustments as well as Disabled Student Allowance. This can be accomplished by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment. You might find your GP doesn't want to refer you, or doesn't offer you an appointment immediately. You may want to think about changing GPs in this situation. The Psychiatry UK website has more information on how you can make your decision. You may also be able book an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider, either through the NHS system or on your own. Some providers might not require a letter of recommendation from your GP, but most will. Be sure to consult with your selected provider prior to making an appointment. How do I obtain a private evaluation? ADHD is a complex mental disorder that affects brain processes such as motivation, working memory, and attention. Adults may have difficulties coping with the condition, which can cause difficulties in a variety of areas. A personal ADHD assessment can help you understand the impact these symptoms affect your life, and determine how you can manage them. There are a variety of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment for the NHS. You have the option of exercising your right to choice (RTC) by asking your GP to refer to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you it could be worth finding another GP who will. A specialist nurse or psychiatrist typically conducts the assessment (or any other qualified healthcare professional as per NICE guidelines). This is because these are the only professionals who can diagnose ADHD. Most of the time, an ADHD assessment will consist of questionnaires as well as a clinic interview either in person or via video call. This usually takes 45-90 minutes. If you are an adult, you will be asked questions regarding your current problems as well as your past struggles since childhood. The healthcare professional will examine whether you exhibit any of the characteristics associated with ADHD – inattention, hyperactivity and an impulsive nature. You will be asked for instances where you showed these characteristics. The healthcare professional can then use this information to diagnose and suggest treatment options. If you're suffering from an ongoing condition and aren't willing to wait for a referral from the NHS seeking a private assessment may be advisable. It is important to know that the results of a private assessment do not mean that your GP will prescribe medication. You'll need to discuss it with them If you decide to take medication, you must consider a shared-care arrangement with your GP. You will find a list of providers if your doctor in England will send you for an ADHD assessment to an NHS provider. Some of these providers provide assessments online and have shorter waiting times. How do I get a private diagnosis? There are many ways to obtain an ADHD assessment. The NHS has a process called “Right to Choice” where you can request your GP for a referral to any of the specialist doctors on their list. This could cut down the wait time substantially. Private providers can also offer an immediate diagnosis. In general, it's recommended to seek out an expert psychiatrist with expertise in adult ADHD. However, it could take some time to locate one as they are not easy to come by. Some will insist on a GP referral letter prior to seeing you for an examination, but this is not always required. Psychiatrists can offer an assessment of your symptoms, but will not be able to prescribe medication for you. Other mental health professionals – like Psychologists – can assist you to manage your symptoms, but they will not give you a formally recognised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to get access to assistance services like Disabled Student's Allowance and reasonable adjustments at work. An expert Psychiatrist will be able to recognize and describe your symptoms, determine whether they're consistent with ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues you may have. It is essential to be honest and open with your Psychiatrist, so they can offer you the most effective treatment. You'll have to pay for the examination, but if you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to obtain medication through a shared care agreement with your doctor (you'll still pay the NHS prescription cost). If cost of private adhd assessment considering paying for an private diagnosis, we'd suggest you talk to your GP before you book an appointment so they know what you're doing and can give their approval in the event of need. Joining a support group is another option to get together with other adults with ADHD and learn from their experiences. They can be extremely helpful, reassuring and motivating. You can find online spaces through Facebook and Reddit or local groups in person. Are private assessments valid? A recent BBC Panorama investigation has sparked controversy over the claims that some private clinics are handing out unreliable diagnoses. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment centers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, even though the patient did not have ADHD. The report claimed that the assessments were rushed, and didn't take into account the entire spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD can have on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and must pay out-of-pocket to get an assessment or prescription. There is a fact that doctors will often recommend an ADHD assessment through one of the most prominent private companies (such as Priory) however they usually inform you that there is likely to be a waiting time. The time frame for waiting differs from one provider to another and is usually six weeks. Ask friends and family for recommendations and conduct thorough research on the provider. Selecting a reputable and experienced business will most likely mean you will experience an easier time waiting than if you go through your GP. During the assessment, your psychiatrist will assess in a subjective manner whether your ADHD symptoms are causing a significant impact on your daily functioning. They will want you to rule out any other causes, like depression or anxiety. If they are required they will request proof from family members (sometimes by filling out forms regarding your childhood). This can be a stressful procedure, especially for those with more complicated family circumstances or for those who aren't able to find their childhood school reports. After you have been diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified healthcare provider You can apply for disability benefits from your local authority. However, you must be aware that most GPs will not sign a document referred to as a shared care agreement when you've been diagnosed privately and have not also been fully titrated into your final dose of medication. This is because GPs are not qualified to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.